Subaru WRX STI Type RA to Debut Prior to BRZ STI
As Subaru continues work on a performance-spec BRZ, there has been a cautious level of optimism surrounding its development. So when Subaru USA tweeted out a massive rear spoiler and urged us to “stay tuned” for June 8th, everyone naturally assumed this was the vehicle to be on the lookout for.
Another image was released today — this time of a carbon fiber roof — referencing the same date and stirring up some controversy. That’s because, just out of focus, you can make out the blurry front end of what is assuredly a WRX. Instead of treating the world to a tweaked version of its rear-wheel-drive coupe next week, Subaru is reviving the hardcore WRX Type RA for the company’s 50th anniversary. The only way this could be any better is if it came with a hatchback option.
Introduced for the Japanese market in 1993, the RA was a stripped-down model designed for motorsport and the limited information available on the new version appears to follow that formula.
The Type RA nameplate was also attached to the 600 horsepower WRX Subaru used to attempt the lap record for sedans at the Nürburgring earlier this year (pictured). Unfortunately, it was too rainy to set any new records, though Subaru confirmed today it will be back at it later this summer.
It also confirmed the car in the teaser photos is indeed the production version of the WRX STI Type RA.
The automaker wouldn’t give up more information than that, but Motor1 reports the special edition model will be based off the 2018 model year STI and feature Recaro seats, a carbon fiber hood and wing, upgraded suspension with Bilstein dampers, and 19-inch forged BBS wheels in Subaru’s traditional gold. Subaru also has made unspecified engine and gearing upgrades. If it continues adhering to the Type RA mantra, expect significantly closer ratios and more power than your standard STI. We’ll find out how much more next week.
[Images: Subaru/ YouTube]
A staunch consumer advocate tracking industry trends and regulation. Before joining TTAC, Matt spent a decade working for marketing and research firms based in NYC. Clients included several of the world’s largest automakers, global tire brands, and aftermarket part suppliers. Dissatisfied with the corporate world and resentful of having to wear suits everyday, he pivoted to writing about cars. Since then, that man has become an ardent supporter of the right-to-repair movement, been interviewed on the auto industry by national radio broadcasts, driven more rental cars than anyone ever should, participated in amateur rallying events, and received the requisite minimum training as sanctioned by the SCCA. Handy with a wrench, Matt grew up surrounded by Detroit auto workers and managed to get a pizza delivery job before he was legally eligible. He later found himself driving box trucks through Manhattan, guaranteeing future sympathy for actual truckers. He continues to conduct research pertaining to the automotive sector as an independent contractor and has since moved back to his native Michigan, closer to where the cars are born. A contrarian, Matt claims to prefer understeer — stating that front and all-wheel drive vehicles cater best to his driving style.
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Oh, thank goodness, just what we needed. Don't forget, Toyobaru: Those who went out and bought an FR-S or BR-Z when they came out now own a 3- or 4 year-old car. I think one or two of them modified for additional power. That's not to mention those of us who were excited for this car, and immediately disappointed that your superior chassis balance was offset by a power delivery that will be remembered as arguably the most inexplicable crippling of any sporting car sold in the US to date. Give it the powerband of the WRX and I trade in my FiST tomorrow.
Amen on the hatchback comment. I'd buy one in a heartbeat, but I need that flexibility.